10/19/2024
DAILY UPDATE October 19, 2024
Contact Fire Information: 208-780-5003 or [email protected]
InciWeb: inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/idbof-lava-fire
Size: 97,585 Acres
Containment: 94%
CURRENT STATUS- The Lava Fire is 94% contained. Local fire management resources will assume command of the incident on Monday. Firefighters are patrolling the fire perimeter, extinguishing hot spots within containment lines where it is safe to do so. Crews are retrieving and backhauling pumps, hose and equipment where work has been completed. Recent precipitation has subdued fire activity within containment lines and made several roads in the fire area difficult to travel.
A BAER (Burned Area Emergency Response) team is working with heavy equipment operators to repair areas damaged by the fire. USFS biologists are also at work in the fire area, removing and transplanting Bull Trout – a threatened species - ahead of bridge reconstruction after several bridges were damaged or destroyed by the Lava Fire and flash floods.
The Cascade Ranger District is issuing free wood-cutting permits to the public, with more than 500 cords of firewood already harvested from designated areas on the forest. Please contact the Cascade Ranger District for more information at (208) 382-7400.
WEATHER – Mostly clear skies and cool temperatures continue through the operational period today. Cloud cover will move in over the fire area on Sunday ahead of another cold front.
CLOSURES – The Boise and Payette National Forests adjusted the Lava Fire area closures on September 30, increasing access for the public to areas north and south of the fire perimeter. Fire managers are working closely with local residents to help them access their properties and cattle within closed areas. The public is asked to respect these closure orders for their safety and the safety of firefighters and equipment working in these areas. For updated map and closure information please visit https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/2d9ffddcb15347ab843a746336c17f68/page/Cascade-Ranger-District/
Road Closures - Updated Gem County closure information is available at https://gemcounty.org/departments_offices/latest_advisories_watch_warnings.php
Evacuations- In Gem County, a Level 1 “READY” notice remains for residents south of South Grays Creek, along Little Weiser River Road in Indian Valley, north of South Grays Creek Road to Highway 95, and the Mesa Area. Learn more at Gem County Sheriff's Office. In Valley County, Zones 4 – 6 remain in a LEVEL 1 “READY” status. Learn more at https://www.co.valley.id.us/departments/Wildfire/WildfireEvacuation
